Lieutenant wins the Betfred Bowl

First Lieutenant (7/2) just got the better of Menorah (14/1) in a thrilling renewal of the Betfred Bowl at Aintree.

Mouse Morris' eight-year-old gained his first victory of the season by battling his way to a three-quarter-length success under in-form jockey Bryan Cooper.

Menorah had disappointed in the Ryanair Chase last time where First Lieutenant was second to Cue Card, but he left that form way behind back on good, spring ground at Aintree.

Philip Hobbs' charge jumped the last well and landed running but First Lieutenant managed to overhaul him on the run-in with Silviniaco Conti (evens favourite) running on late for third.

Morris said: "He really deserved one. "He's got a big heart and he jumped super for Bryan, but I thought we were struggling turning in.

"He hasn't run a bad race all season and was second in all the good handicaps and Grade Ones.

"I'm delighted for the horse and the team at home.

"I wouldn't have thought he'd go to Punchestown, but we'll see."

Cooper said: "I've been knocking on the door with this lad all season so it's great he's got his head in front.

"He's been up against Bobs Worth, Tidal Bay, Cue Card - he really deserves it.

"I was on and off the bridle the whole way but he jumped exceptionally well and I was always trying to save a bit.

"It's a shame Davy can't be here, he's riding at home today at Thurles with not a bother on him."

Paul Nicholls said of beaten favourite Silviniaco Conti: "Ruby said if he hadn't missed the ditch he would have won.

"I suppose if he hadn't fallen in the Gold Cup we could have ridden him more positively as he's not a speed horse, more of a stayer. In the future we'll ride him like we did at Haydock."

Philip Hobbs said of Menorah: "I'm really pleased, it's the first time he's had decent ground all season and I'd be inclined to finish him off on a high note now."

Sky Bet cut First Lieutenant to 12/1 from 20s for next year's Cheltenham Gold Cup and their spokesman Michael Shinners said: " He put up a good performance and proved he gets three miles in good company. His jumping was excellent and although he would need to improve again he could be a player in next year's race."